Candlemas, commemorated on Feb. 2, marks two simultaneous milestones in the childhood of Christ. This celebration commemorates when Mary and Joseph traveled to Jerusalem to present Jesus in the Temple (the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord) and the purification of the Blessed Mother. Although Mary’s ritual purification was not necessary due to her sinless nature, the ceremony that was required under Mosaic law prescribed that a woman wait 40 days after childbirth before returning to the Temple. The day is known as the Feast of Candles in honor of the words of the Temple priest Simeon, who in the Gospel of Luke prophesized that Jesus would be a light of revelation for the Gentiles and the glory of the people of Israel. On this day, candles are blessed for use throughout the year in liturgical services and in our homes.